Drugs and Alcohol
I. Policy
     Student safety is a primary concern of the school. The physical, social, and mental health of students must be protected at all times. To that end, the drug and alcohol policy has been developed. It will be explained to all concerned and carried out as a school policy, intended for the well being of the entire school community.
     The policy deals with behavior in school and at/near school functions. But, as with all school policies, any such behavior, occurring outside school and school hours, which jeopardizes the reputation of St. Elizabeth High School, will be dealt with in the same manner as if it had occurred at school or a school function.
     St. Elizabeth High School will do all in its power to help a student who has an addiction to alcohol, drugs, etc. Thus the first steps of this policy involve assessment and counseling. However, St. Elizabeth High School will not tolerate further infractions. It is our intent to help, not enable this unacceptable behavior. Therefore, this policy is cumulative during a student's tenure here at St. Elizabeth High School.  Involvement with the law in the area of drug and alcohol abuse could lead to dismissal of the student.  

II. General Statement
     Using, consuming, possessing, distributing and/or being under the influence of alcohol, stimulants, drugs, hallucinatory drugs, narcotics, substances (except when expressly prescribed by a physician) at or near a school function is strictly prohibited. Violators shall be suspended or dismissed from school and referred to the appropriate law enforcement agency. Prescription drugs must be in the custody of and dispensed by the school nurse.  

III. Explanation of the Drug and Alcohol Policy
     The policy focuses on two major areas: the use of any type of drug, alcohol, etc., and the selling, providing, distribution, and supplying of drugs, and alcohol. This includes the misuse of prescription drugs.  

A. Users

1. First Indication:
      The student is sent home from school, after his parents are notified, and a meeting set up with the Disciplinary Board. The student is required (at parents’ expense and, in a timely manner) to undergo professional assessment at a school designated facility, attend a substance awareness program and/or receive professional counseling, and, both student and parents sign a contract agreeing to random drug, alcohol, etc. testing at the school's request and, release of the test information to the school. The execution of this contract is a condition of remaining at St. Elizabeth High School. In addition, the student receives an out-of-school suspension or dismissal (depending on circumstances) and receives 15 demerits.

2. Second Indication: The school will immediately notify the parents of the offense and recommend to the Principal that the student be dismissed from school.